Esophageal spasm is a condition that occurs when the muscles in the esophagus, the tube that connects your throat to your stomach, contract abnormally. This can cause a range of symptoms, including chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and heartburn.

While the condition is typically benign, it can be uncomfortable and even debilitating in some cases. Below, we’ll explore the symptoms of esophageal spasm and the treatment options available.

Symptoms of Esophageal Spasm

The symptoms of esophageal spasm can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:.

Chest pain: This is often described as a sharp, stabbing pain that occurs in the chest or upper back. The pain may be mistaken for a heart attack, as it can mimic the symptoms of one.
Dysphagia: This is the medical term for difficulty swallowing. People with esophageal spasm may feel like food is stuck in their throat or chest, or they may have trouble swallowing altogether.
Heartburn: Esophageal spasms can cause acid reflux, which can lead to heartburn and other digestive symptoms such as bloating and gas.
Regurgitation: This is when food or liquids come back up after being swallowed. Regurgitation can happen spontaneously or during or after meals.
Non-cardiac chest pain: Esophageal spasms can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from the chest or upper back, but is not related to the heart.
Hoarseness: Chronic esophageal spasms can cause irritation to the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness.

Treatment Options for Esophageal Spasm

Treatment for esophageal spasm depends on the severity of the condition and the extent of the symptoms. Mild cases may be treated with lifestyle changes, while more severe cases may require medication or surgery.

Below are some of the treatment options available for esophageal spasm:.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, losing weight, and avoiding trigger foods can reduce the symptoms of esophageal spasm. Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding lying down after eating can also help.

Medication

Several medications can help alleviate the symptoms of esophageal spasm. These include:.

Calcium channel blockers: These drugs relax the muscles in the esophagus and can help reduce spasms.
Nitroglycerin: This medication is typically used to treat angina, but it can also help reduce esophageal spasms.
Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants can help reduce the severity of esophageal spasms.
Botox injections: In some cases, Botox injections can help relax the muscles in the esophagus and reduce spasms.

Surgery

In severe cases, surgery may be needed to treat esophageal spasms. The most common surgery for this condition is called a Heller myotomy, which involves cutting the muscles in the esophagus to relieve spasms.

While surgery can be effective, it is typically reserved for cases where other treatment options have not worked.

Conclusion

Esophageal spasm can be uncomfortable and even debilitating in some cases, but there are treatment options available to alleviate the symptoms of the condition.

Lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery can all help reduce the severity of esophageal spasms and improve overall quality of life.